Episode 36: Mortality + True Aliveness

EPISODE OVERVIEW

In this episode of This Is Not What I Ordered, I had the opportunity to sit down with Ned Buskirk. Ned embodies the definition of renaissance man -- he’s an artist, writer, educator, and founder of the “You’re Going To Die” movement. He’s integrated a distinctive way of confronting loss with compassion to organize events where he invites others to share their experiences with mortality creatively and in whatever way they can. His experiences with chronic illness, grieving, and loss have shaped him into a mouthpiece for acceptance and trusting the unknown.

Ned’s dedication to speaking so candidly about death and giving a voice to the fear and anxiety that we have in our bodies and in our lives is empowering. During our chat, he discusses the different meanings behind the saying “It’s okay,” the catharsis of letting go and the relief it brings into your life, and how showing up for his mother’s passing helped him to understand the humility in death.

“Sort of why we laugh so readily at fart jokes and things like that is because it is this bag of bones and flesh and it's got hilarity to it as much as it holds our essence of existence.” — NED BUSKIRK

Highlights

I cannot thank Ned enough for opening up about the impact of his mother’s death, as well as his profound readiness to discuss his own anxiety and struggles with chronic pain and inexplicable illness. This episode was filled with inspiration and a genuine understanding of what it means to show up. A few of my favorite moments with Ned include:

How he gives a voice to the unknown

The catharsis in crying and how it can be healing

“Death can be humbling.”

The importance of facing your own mortality and fragility

Embracing “mother” energy

Why saying “It’s okay” can be dismissive in some contexts, and a gentle blessing in others

The power in shedding light on the dark days and enjoying the bittersweet moments

Ned’s introduction at the first “You’re Going To Die” event he hosted. www.yg2d.com

SOUND TECHNICIAN

transcript + SHOW NOTES WRITER

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